How to Test and Maintain Your Commercial Security System
If you are running a business, you know how important securing it is. It is just as important as the business itself. While security begins with installing the right system, it doesn't stop here. You must continuously monitor and maintain the system to achieve optimum functionality. How do you test and maintain it? Read on!
Common Issues of Commercial Security Systems
Lack of maintenance for your commercial security system exposes your business to various issues. Some of the most common ones include:
False Alarms Ringing
There is nothing as scary as hearing the security alarms at your business. It could only mean one thing; your security has been compromised.
But what if you ran to call for help, only to realize it was a false alarm? If your security systems raise the alarm more than once without any apparent reason, you need to have this checked.
Failure to Arm or Disarm
Have you noticed an issue with arming and disarming your security systems? An alarm system that incorrectly arms and disarms is just as risky as raising false alarms. This is because you may never know whether or not your business premises are safe. If this has happened more than once, call us today so we can take a look.
Incorrect Programming
While everything in the commercial security system has been well installed and programmed, there is a chance that some errors may come up. This often occurs when the layout of the building has changed. If you notice a programming issue, call an expert ASAP to help you reprogram it.
Testing Your Security System
The best way to determine the effectiveness of your commercial security system is by testing it at least once every month. Depending on the system's complexity, you can easily do this within fifteen minutes.
Set Up the Test with Your Monitoring Station
Begin by setting up the test with your monitoring station and arming the security system while all openings (doors and windows) are closed. To eliminate any false alarms during the test, ensure no accidental disruptions occur, especially to the motion detectors.
Trigger Your Security Alarm System
The next step is triggering the alarm by testing the different components of your commercial alarm system. For instance, you can trigger it by opening your door, knocking on the window, or setting off the motion detector.
Let the Alarm Go Off for 60 Seconds
During the test, ensure the alarm goes for at least sixty seconds so the monitoring station receives the signal. After one minute, you need to turn off the security alarm and reset it.
Get In Touch with Your Monitoring Station
Once all this is done, contact your monitoring station and confirm whether or not they got the signal. They will let you know if it worked and will take it off the 'test mode'.
Maintaining Your Security System
Now that you know the common issues affecting your security system and how to test it, how do you ensure it is well-maintained and working optimally? Here are a few tips!
Regularly Check Your CCTV and Cameras
One of the best ways to maintain your systems is to check your CCTV and cameras as regularly as possible. This helps you ensure that they are properly working. It also helps you catch problems early on.
Check the Hardware for Wear and Tear
After how long do you check your security system's cables for warping, folding, or any issues? If you notice any wear or tear, you must talk to a professional to help you!
Schedule Professional Inspections
While the above tactics work in helping you maintain your systems, the only way to be sure is to schedule a professional inspection. The experts will come into your premises, assess the systems, and correct any issues. They will also leave you with additional insights into your systems.
Invest in A Security System
As you can see, testing and maintaining your commercial security system is essential for ensuring the safety and security of your commercial premises.
While regular testing is a great way to determine whether your system is working well, maintenance is a surefire way to ensure it works optimally and serves you over a long time. Ready to invest in a security system for your business? Contact us today, and let us prolong your security system's lifespan!